Date nights tend to mean different things to different people depending on their stage of life.
Date nights tend to mean different things to different people depending on their stage of life. In the early days of a new relationship, the focus tends to be on getting to know that person and seeing if things might progress somewhere meaningful.
A couple that has been together a long time might choose to enjoy date nights that are focused on keeping things fresh and exciting by mixing things up in terms of the places they go and the things they do together.
Some people enjoy date nights that involve food and drinks whereas others will gravitate towards adventure and physical activities.
When you have children the entire concept of date nights change for the majority of couples. Here are 10 of the ways that they can change.
1. They tend to be a lot less frequent for a number of reasons. You now have a little person to consider after all. Babysitters are not always in plentiful supply and you might not want to be away from the baby as much as you previously thought you would. Fatigue can also be a huge factor.
2. Rather than looking for any excuse to stay out later you will probably look for one to leave earlier. You just don’t have the same energy as before due to the sleep deprivation and physical responsibilities that come with parenthood.
3. Alcohol just ain’t what it used to be. A hangover is no longer a cushy affair involving day-time napping and lazy snacks. Parenting with a hangover is no joke.
4. You will vow to talk about other things but 90% of your chat will be about your children.
5. Food will always be a priority because these days eating with two hands is a total novelty.
6. If you have a day time date or an early evening date you will feel a weird combination of guilt and excitement when you spot anyone with a child.
7. You won’t really “switch off” entirely. Don’t be surprised if you text the babysitter within the first thirty minutes of leaving or if you feel inexplicably worried about your children because it’s completely natural.
8. You will learn a lot about each other. Even though you live together it can feel a bit like being passing ships in the night when children come along. Date nights can be a great opportunity to simply fill each other in on what has been going on in your lives.
9. You used to spend hours getting ready and spending time choosing your outfits and accessories. These days it is a total after-thought and it’s a miracle if you can leave the house without some kind of food on your clothes.
10. You won’t take the alone time for granted any more. What is seldom is wonderful and these days you will really appreciate a date night when it finally happens.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.
